Mahu Whenua

Step into the untamed beauty of Mahu Whenua and experience Wanaka’s alpine wilderness on a guided hike designed exclusively for guests of The Homestead Villa. Wander through native forests, follow ridgeline trails, or take a helicopter to higher peaks for sweeping views of New Zealand’s most protected landscapes.

Led by expert guides and storytellers, each hike reveals the region’s rich history and conservation legacy — from reforestation efforts to restored wildlife habitats. Whether you choose a leisurely walk or a challenging ascent, these trails invite you to connect deeply with nature and witness the living spirit of Mahu Whenua.

Ease into your Mahu Whenua morning with calm and clarity. After a chef-prepared breakfast and rich New Zealand coffee, join your private yoga instructor for a mindful session overlooking Lake Wanaka or Mount Aspiring National Park. Move gently through your flow as sunlight warms the peaks and native flax sways in the breeze.

Then take the experience higher — literally — with a breathtaking helicopter flight over alpine valleys and shimmering glaciers. It’s a day that balances serenity and exhilaration, grounding you in nature’s beauty before lifting you into the vast silence of the southern sky.

After settling into your suite at the Homestead, trade wheels for hooves and set out on an unforgettable afternoon horse trek. From the private stables, your Mahu Whenua guide leads you through beech forests, across crystal streams, and along winding valley trails that reveal the property’s wild beauty.

Pause midway for refreshments as you learn about the land’s history and conservation efforts. The air is pure, the views endless, and each stride feels like a step back in time. By sunset, you’ll return with rosy cheeks, a ready appetite and stories to share over dinner by the fire.